The Yard of the Rising Sun-Rubin Family of Wines

April 24, 2017.Reading time 5 minutes.

It is easy to see where they get their name. The new leaves unfold as the earliest colors of the sun: waxy yellow, pink grapefruit, apricot, chartreuse and key lime. Splashes of citrus fade, the greens deepen. The Rising Sun Redbud borders our deck and is a family favorite. A few weeks ago, when the leaves were […]

Here, There, and Everywhere

April 21, 2016.Reading time 4 minutes.

Inspiration can come at the most surprising times, from a variety of places. An idea takes seed, and in the right conditions, can flourish. What are those conditions? Who is to say? For me, it varies but usually requires a combination of space, time, and heart. Space to tumble around and gain momentum, time to plan and accomplish, and a […]

Love at First Sight-Sonoma County

April 7, 2016.Reading time 5 minutes.

We arrived at nearly midnight, weaving up Plum Creek Road, the canopy above blocked our view below. We entered through a porte-cochere, hidden again, and after a brief tour of the essentials, gave in to pull of the pillow after a long day of travel. As I went to sleep, I wondered what I would see […]

An Elegant Surprise- Gary Farrell Sauvignon Blanc

July 15, 2012.Reading time 4 minutes.

I have to admit. I was very excited when I received this 2010 Gary Farrell Sauvignon Blanc from Redwood Ranch in Sonoma County($25)*. I have heard great things about their wine, in general, and I am a sucker for a good Sauvignon Blanc. I have been looking forward to opening it and this is the first weekend […]